Force India signs Mazepin as development driver

Force India has announced that it has signed 16-year-old Russian Nikita Mazepin as a development driver for the 2016 campaign.

Mazepin competed in Formula Renault 2.0 NEC in 2015 and placed 12th overall and this year will graduate to Formula 3.

Mazepin will conduct simulator duties for Force India this year and attend selected Grands Prix with the team.

"It’s an incredible feeling to join Force India," he said.

"It’s the biggest step in my career and I want to thank Vijay [Mallya] and everyone in the team for giving me this opportunity.

"I’m still young and I have a lot to learn, so the guidance and experience of Force India is really important for my development.

"My goal is to race in Formula 1 in the future and today’s news takes me closer to achieving that objective. I will work hard to help the team and do everything I can to improve my skills on and off the track."

Force India has also signed Formula V8 3.5 racer Alfonso Celis Jr. to its junior roster for 2016.